Prue Car, Deputy Premier of NSW and Minister for Education and Early Learning, has announced she has breast cancer.
“A recent screening has detected breast cancer, and I will now begin immediate treatment,” she said in a statement on Tuesday.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Deputy Premier of NSW Prue Car diagnosed with breast cancer.
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Car said she will be taking personal leave for “an undetermined amount of time” and temporarily passing the Education and Early Learning portfolio to the state’s Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos.
Houssos will also act as the Minister for Western Sydney in Car’s absence.
It’s not the first time Car has had cancer, and she expressed gratitude for a recent screening that detected the unrelated cancer in earlier stages.
“Thankfully, because the cancer was caught early, my doctors are optimistic about my recovery — and so am I,” Car said.
“I’ve faced this challenge before, and I’m determined to beat it again.
“Testing has confirmed this is unrelated to my previous diagnosis.”
Car reminded her constituents that they can still come to her Londonderry office with any concerns they may have.
She also urged women to be very vigilant with breast cancer checks.
“Breast cancer screenings are vital for early detection and treatment, and I strongly encourage all women to stay up to date with their checks,” Car said.
“I am extremely grateful for early detection and to the incredible people who work in the NSW Health system. They are nothing short of extraordinary.
“I want to thank the premier and all my parliamentary colleagues for their unwavering support and look forward to being back as soon as possible.”
‘She is a fighter’
The Premier of NSW Chris Minns has shared a message of support for his colleague and friend, noting that he supports her temporary leave and looks forward to welcoming her back.
“The thoughts of the entire government are with our colleague and our friend Prue Car as she begins treatment following her breast cancer diagnosis,” he said.
“I know Prue well. She is a fighter, and I know she will face this challenge with the same determination and grace that she brings to everything she does.
“I fully support her decision to take the time she needs to focus on her health and recovery, and I know she will be supported by expert care and the love of her family, friends, and colleagues.
“I also echo her important message about early detection and encourage everyone to stay on top of their health checks.
“Prue remains as the Deputy Premier of NSW, as we look forward to welcoming her back when she’s ready.”
Car said she also looks forward to returning “to the role I’ve cherished since our government took office in March 2023 — a role I absolutely love.”
